A Beacon of History and Resilience in Patna
Golghar or Gol Ghar, literally meaning the rounded house was built as a grain storage facility in order to guarantee a continuous supply of grain in case of any other crisis. It is one of Patna’s best-known landmarks, it is an enormous grain storage facility which displays a stupa style of architecture. It is one of the most prominent historical monuments. At the time it was built, it was once the tallest building in Patna. Being of Patna’s significant landmarks, many people only know Patna for that famous Golghar building.
Location
It is located west of the Gandhi Maidan in Patna, the capital city of Bihar, India. It was designed by Captain John Garstin of Bengal Engineers, and it was built in 1786. British engineer Captain John Garstin created it as a storage facility for wheat. Although the architect for the construction was British John Gartin, scholars think the unique shape of Golghar has Indian origins, since locals had been building conical grain silos for centuries.
Devastating Famine
Golghar came about as a result of the devastating 1770 famine that killed almost 10 million people across the regions of Bengal, Bihar, and present-day Bangladesh. Surprisingly, there are no other replicas of Golghar, and it seems there is just one built at Patna, nowhere else.
Honeycomb Like Design
Golghar, one of Patna’s best-known sites, is designed to look like a honeycomb. It was designed, conceptualized and built by Captain John Garstin, who was serving as a civil engineer for the East India Company. Alarmed at the disastrous effects of the famine, the East India Company, built this massive grain storage facility for the British Army. It is known as a tourist and picnic destination today in Patna, whereas this building was given a fresh facelift in December 2017.
A marvel of architecture
Despite its massive size, the Golghar boasts impressive construction. Its 3.6m thick walls rise 29m, supported by an ingenious pillar-less design. The winding spiral staircase with 145 steps leads to the top, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Patna and the mighty Ganges. It also had a spiral staircase (outside) which had to carry workers carrying the grain up the end, then down to the other. One could ascend the Golghar’s summit through its 145-step spiral staircase. The Golghar summit offers panoramic views of Patna and the Ganges. Apart from being a storage facility, It offers a stunning panoramic view of the whole city and the neighbouring Ganges.
It is enclosed with winding stairs that provide an excellent view of Patna and the river Ganges flowing off its banks. It is a beautiful amalgamation of history and natural beauty.
Beyond storage
Though initially designed for grain storage, Golghar served various purposes throughout history. It functioned as a treasury, an armoury, and even an astronomical observatory. Today, it stands as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical significance, unique architecture, and stunning vistas.
More than just a monument
It holds a unique place in the hearts of Patna residents. It is a symbol of the city’s resilience, a testament to its past, and a beacon of hope for the future. A recent addition of a light and sound show narrates the Golghar’s fascinating story, further enriching the visitor experience.
Visiting Golghar
If you find yourself in Patna, visiting Golghar is a must. Climb the steps to witness the panoramic view, explore its history, and be awestruck by this architectural marvel. Remember, it’s not just a monument, but a gateway to Patna’s fascinating past and vibrant present.
How to reach?
Patna is well connected through Rail, Road and Air network.
